A fresh chapter is set to begin for one of Dalry Road’s most historic buildings. The former home of the Victorian Heart tattoo studio — located at 90 Dalry Road — will soon be transformed into a new restaurant, following planning approval by Edinburgh City Council on May 15.
The building, which once served as the entrance and foyer to the Scotia Cinema, Edinburgh’s second picture house, will now join a thriving culinary cluster near Haymarket Station, featuring an eclectic mix of Greek, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, and Mediterranean venues.
While the type of cuisine has not yet been disclosed, the approved plans submitted by Development Direct Ltd include seating for up to 36 diners, along with a kitchen and customer restrooms on the ground floor and staff facilities upstairs.
“The proposed restaurant will enhance the vibrant and ever-evolving dynamic of the Dalry/Haymarket quarter by the formation of a destination-led quality venue,” the development team stated in planning documents. “It is anticipated that this venue will be held in high esteem by those in the locale and visitors alike.”
A Site Rich in History
The building’s legacy dates back to 1912, when it opened as the Scotia Cinema during the dawn of the moving pictures industry. Tragically, the 584-seat auditorium was destroyed by fire in 1964 and subsequently demolished, with the surviving portion — the cinema’s original entrance and foyer — finding new life through a series of different uses over the years.
The current project will preserve the building’s ornate stone façade, including its original pilasters, fascia, and architectural mouldings, maintaining a tangible connection to its cinematic past.
Modernization with Care
While the plans call for a remodel of the existing shopfront, careful steps are being taken to respect the building’s heritage. A number of technical and regulatory conditions were attached to the planning approval, including:
Installation of compliant kitchen ventilation
Adherence to local noise and insulation standards
Submission of a formal Notice of Initiation of Development before any construction begins
The council also encouraged developers to improve accessibility. Chief Planning Officer David Givan recommended reconsideration of the stepped entrance, which may present difficulties for patrons with mobility impairments.
Community and Culture
The new restaurant will add to the cultural and social life of Dalry Road, just a short walk from Haymarket Station, one of the city’s busiest transport hubs. The area has seen significant regeneration in recent years and continues to attract a mix of residents, students, and tourists.
While the specific nature and branding of the restaurant remain under wraps, the development has sparked local curiosity. With its blend of historical preservation and modern hospitality, the new venue is expected to become a welcome addition to Edinburgh’s ever-expanding food scene.
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